Course description
The MA in Applied Linguistics and TEFL aims to develop an understanding of the general and applied linguistic issues that have a bearing on the learning and teaching of English as a foreign language. It will also enable teachers to reflect on their current teaching practice.
The course is structured on the basis of core units and optional units.
Core units
-Principles of applied linguistics
-Theory and practice of TEFL
-Research management
-Second language learning and teaching
-ELT curriculum, syllabus design and assessment
-Dissertation
-Optional units
-Language in use
-World Englishes
-Materials development
-Technology in language teaching and learning
-Independent learning
-These units are described briefly below.
Exit levels
The credit system creates a flexible framework in which you can graduate with one of the following awards, depending on the number of credits gained. Each taught unit has a credit rating of 15 credits with the dissertation worth 60 credit points:
MA in Applied Linguistics and TEFL (four core units plus the research management and dissertation units) 180 credits
Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Linguistics and TEFL: 120 credits
Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Linguistics and TEFL: 60 credits
Core unit descriptions
Principles of applied linguistics
This unit provides an opportunity for familiarisation with Halliday’s functional approach to language description and the contributions of semantics, pragmatics, sociolinguistics and psycholinguistics to the teaching of English. The focus at all times is on applying models and linguistic theories to the classroom.
Theory and practice of TEFL
This unit is designed to give you an up-to-date understanding of the principles which underpin practice in TEFL. We will introduce you to the theories upon which contemporary language learning and teaching practice in TEFL is based, as well as practical teaching ideas for the communicative classroom. We will examine the EFL learner and learner differences and equip you with some basic skills for classroom-focused research.
Research management
The research management unit is designed to prepare you for the dissertation. Following the discussion of suitable topics at Masters level, you will be introduced to a variety of methodologies that will enable to you to develop a practical and analytical framework for your dissertation.
Second language learning and teaching
This unit focuses on features of language learner development, such as variability in language performance and ultimate attainment, by investigating the influence of different learning environments, e.g. age, individual learner differences, language input and the learner’s first language. The unit includes coverage of particular issues, such as inter-language pragmatics, language attrition and the relearning of a forgotten language.
ELT curriculum, syllabus design and assessment
In this unit you will focus on the relationship between curriculum, syllabus, courses and assessment. You will examine curriculum development and change. You will also develop the skills and knowledge practitioners require for the adoption or development of new syllabuses, courses and assessments and understand ways of evaluating these. We will also consider ways in which qualitative research underpins studies.
Dissertation
You will choose your dissertation theme with support from your dissertation tutor. We will encourage you to start thinking about your dissertation topics (initial dissertation proposal) as early as possible, so that when the time comes to focus you will be in a position to take forward the dissertation dynamically (dissertation proposal and dissertation.
Optional Unit Descriptions
Language in use
Starting with a discussion of key features of discourse and pragmatics we go on to examine the extent to which language teaching materials develop learner awareness of the issues raised. The teaching of grammar, vocabulary, phonology and the four skills are scrutinised from this perspective, and relevant literature in each area is critically assessed.
World Englishes
The shape of English is changing all the time. The term ‘World Englishes’ has been coined to account for the many new varieties of English which have emerged outside the Anglo-Saxon world during the last century. In this unit you will learn about the development of these Englishes and, in particular, examine their implications for English language teaching and learning worldwide.
Materials development
This unit is aimed at helping students apply theoretical principles of second language acquisition and current research findings to the development of materials for learning and teaching. The unit will be practical in its focus. Students will develop skills to evaluate and adapt existing classroom materials to maximise learner engagement and will produce their own principled materials in a supportive environment.
Technology in language teaching and learning
The Technology in Language Learning unit allows its participants the opportunity to experience the use of technology first hand. It aims to make available both the theoretical knowledge of ICT( information communication technology) and its pedagogical application so that teachers are better placed to make the necessary changes to their teaching in order to exploit the potential ICT offers the language learning classroom.
Independent learning
In this unit you will be encouraged to analyse, discuss and evaluate in depth an area of Applied Linguistics or English Language Teaching which interests you and which is not otherwise explored or explored in such depth in the cores or options. You will be allocated an appropriate supervisor who will guide you through the planning process and continue to advise you throughout the unit.
Please note. All optional units are subject to staff availability and student demand
